By: Jamie Thompson
Updated: Dec. 20, 2019
Originally Published: Dec. 19, 2019
When I was growing up, my family made it a tradition to gather around the television for The Wonderful World of Disney. It was a shared event, something we all looked forward to. Similarly, we had our Friday nights filled with TGIF shows that engaged both my mother, my brother, and me. These were the kinds of programs that struck a perfect balance—entertaining for kids while not driving adults to distraction. We all became invested in the characters and the storylines.
These shows served as a bridge, connecting generations. During my teenage years, we shared a similar experience with The X-Files. You couldn’t binge-watch these series; they required collective viewing, one episode at a time, all huddled around the same screen. Today, Disney+ has revived that spirit with The Mandalorian, the most captivating Star Wars entry since the original trilogy.
The Mandalorian encompasses everything a family could want. It captures the essence of those beloved Star Wars animated series your children have enjoyed, like Star Wars Rebels and Star Wars Clone Wars. It takes a side story, adds a sprinkle of the original trilogy’s Boba Fett, introduces a compelling hero in the Mandalorian, and, in a stroke of genius, gifts us with the cultural sensation of the decade: Baby Yoda.
Yes, Baby Yoda.
We’ll delve into Baby Yoda, officially dubbed “The Child,” but let’s face it, he will forever be known as Baby Yoda. Kids are captivated by the action, the Storm Troopers, and the nostalgic Star Wars references (Mandalorians! Bounty hunters! A cantina scene! They’re on Tatooine, but wait, it’s not Tatooine!). Adults, on the other hand, are drawn in by virtually everything else. Plus, the show aligns perfectly with the release of the final installment in the Skywalker saga on December 20.
As the first live-action Star Wars spin-off, The Mandalorian feels more sophisticated and visually stunning. In an era where shows are judged by cinematic quality, it shines with a film-like aesthetic. It carries a more mature vibe compared to Star Wars Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels (even though Clancy Brown voices a character in both). For the younger audience, there are DEATH TROOPERS, BLASTERS, and an exciting new weapon known as WHISTLING BIRDS! The action sequences keep everyone on the edge of their seats, creating a shared experience that resonates with both kids and adults. This is the brilliance of The Mandalorian—it caters to everyone.
Then there’s the Mandalorian himself, portrayed by Pablo Pascal. Even though his face is never revealed, he somehow manages to be incredibly appealing.
In a world where streaming platforms often release entire seasons at once, The Mandalorian takes a different approach, dropping a new episode every Friday. This pacing allows families to exchange theories and engage in discussions (for instance, we spent quite a while arguing whether Baby Yoda could actually be the reincarnation of the original Yoda—impossible but still a fun topic). It has become our family’s shared cultural touchstone. In an age where children’s programming and adult shows are often segregated, The Mandalorian beautifully blends the two.
As The New York Times puts it, Baby Yoda has become a cultural icon. He’s like Yoda but irresistibly cute and devoid of crankiness. His mastery of the Force is unlike anything we’ve seen before. Disney even strategically delayed the release of Baby Yoda merchandise this Christmas to prevent holiday shopping chaos (that didn’t stop my kids from crafting a green LEGO baby Voldemort and calling it Baby Yoda).
Look at that adorable face. Look at those tiny hands. He’s undoubtedly one of the most meme-worthy characters ever.
You have a television phenomenon that invites families to gather weekly, filled with elements that appeal to both adults and kids alike. And yes, it’s Star Wars. A complete triumph for Disney Plus. You’ve managed to unite us once again, Disney, crafting media that resonates across all demographics.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ll be in my corner worrying about Baby Yoda’s fate, alongside my kids. And there’s that movie coming out? Meanwhile, my kids are in the other room exclaiming, “I AM A BOUNTY HUNTER!” while my six-year-old sobs about losing Baby Yoda/Baby Voldemort.
In summary, The Mandalorian is more than just a show; it’s a family event that successfully bridges the gap between generations with its engaging storytelling and beloved characters.